Quitting Heroin Cold Turkey

Heroin is a highly addictive street drug that claims the lives of thousands of men and women each year. After just one use, many individuals have found themselves drawn to its effects and going back for more. The stigmas of a heroin addict do not deter those looking for relief from pain or an easy escape from reality. Unfortunately before many of those who are just “trying out” the drug, before they know it they are fully addicted and unable to stop its use without pain of withdrawal.

Stopping Heroin

For many heroin addicts the second symptoms of withdrawal start they rush to get a fix. This is because the brain becomes dependent on the drug to function, taking it away causes the body to go into shock and sends nerves backfiring and causing painful symptoms of withdrawal.
Common symptoms of heroin withdrawal include:

Cold sweats

Depression and anxiety

Loss of appetite

Unstable moods

Muscle cramping

Nausea and vomiting

Diarrhea

Seizures

Cold Turkey

While quitting heroin cold turkey is not the best option it is possible to quit on your own. It is important to keep in mind the withdrawal effects you will experience can range in severity from mild discomfort to unbearable pain. Depending on the severity of your addiction you may choose to enter into a detoxification program to find relief from withdrawal symptoms.

Before You Start

Before you start the process of detoxing at home you will need some supplies. For the next 7 days you are going to need to shut yourself off from the outside world. Stock up you home with water and easy to make meals (for when you get an appetite). While you can go without food for a few days you body requires water and during the detox process you could easily dehydrate if you are not drinking water regularly. Water will also help to detoxify the body, regular your body temperature and ease muscle pain. When quitting cold turkey water is one of the most important elements you will need.

You will also what to pick up a few OTC (over the counter) medications.

Imodium, anti diarrhea drug containing Loperamide (an opioid drug) that will help to relieve diarrhea, stomach cramps and other withdrawal symptoms when taken at high dosages every 5 to 6 hours or as needed.

While heroin withdrawal is 100 times worse than the flu, NyQuil nighttime flu medicine can offer you some relief and help you sleep longer increments of time.

Valerian Root Capsules, which is also known as nature’s Valium, is an herbal supplement that can be used to relieve anxiety and restlessness.

There are many other over the counter medications that you can use to find relief when withdrawing from heroin: Phenibut, Pepto-Bismol, Maalox, Mylanta, Emetrol, Nauzene, Dramamine, Kratom, vitamins and supplements.

It’s Easier Said Than Done

Quitting heroin cold turkey is easier said than done. Before you begin the process it is important to speak with your primary care physician to determine if you are in overall good health and can handle the detox process. Heroin withdrawal can be dangerous, be sure to set up to have a friend or family member check in on you on a regular basis to ensure your safety. With commitment and strength you can quit heroin cold turkey.